The West Highland Line | Guide to Britain's most scenic train journey Britain's most scenic train route... The West Highland Line . . . London to Central Asia & China via The Silk Route London to India overland Resident in France? Try Comments? Feedback? Need help? Email the Man in Seat Sixty-One! Sign the Thank you for visiting my site... The World's Best Train Ride? A few years ago, the Wanderlust Travel Awards included a new category, Best Rail Journey. So who won? The train to Machu Picchu in Peru? Through the Alps in Switzerland? Across the Rockies in Canada? No. Right on our doorstep, readers of Wanderlust Magazine voted for the wonderful West Highland Line from Glasgow to Fort William & Mallaig in Scotland as the world's best train journey. Rightly so, as the West Highland Line is not only the most scenic train route in Britain, it's one of my favourite journeys anywhere. This page explains what there is to see on the West Highland Line, and how to plan and book a journey on it. You can also travel on the West Highland Line on a daily summer steam train , or even on a luxury cruise train . Where does the West Highland Line go?

Click for map of UK rail network The West Highland Line runs from Glasgow to Fort William, the largest town in the West Highlands of Scotland, and onwards to Mallaig, a tiny fishing port and terminal for the ferry to Armadale on the Isle of Skye. Most of the line is a twisting single track railway through fabulous Highland scenery, often miles from the nearest road. There's also a branch to Oban, the ferry terminal for various other Scottish islands. Just 3 ScotRail sprinter trains a day link Glasgow Queen Street with Fort William & Mallaig, fewer on Sundays, in addition to the London-Fort William sleeper - see for times & fares. It's not fast, taking 3h45 for the 123 miles from Glasgow to Fort William or 5h15 for the 164 miles from Glasgow to Mallaig, stopping at all wayside stations. A magical winter ride on the West Highland Line ... Click for practical information These photos were taken on a magical winter morning from the London to Fort William Caledonian Sleeper . Compare them with the magical summer's evening journey from Fort William to London shown on the Deerstalker page .

Tip: From Glasgow to Fort William, sit on the left-hand side for the best views northbound, right hand side southbound. Departure from Glasgow... The West Highland Line starts at Glasgow Queen Street, passing through the Glaswegian suburbs towards Helensburgh. You run along the shores of Loch Lomond (on the right-hand side of the train) towards Ardlui station. Next stop, Crianlarich, where the line to Oban branches off. After Crianlarich comes Upper Tyndrum (pictured above right), high up on the hillside above the village, with Tyndrum Lower on the steadily diverging line to Oban in the valley below. The tiny village of Tyndrum is the smallest place in Britain with two separate stations. The Horseshoe curve... North of Tyndrum, the railway builders hadn't the money for a viaduct across the mouth of a broad valley.

The result is the famous 'horseshoe curve', where the line enters, circles & leaves the glen at the foot of Beinn Dorain (pictured above, 3524 feet), Beinn a' Chaiseil (2897 feet) & Beinn Odhar (2948 feet). The Horseshoe curve again, looking backward (above left) and forwards (above right) Stags, seen from the train... Rannoch station... Rannoch Moor... The bleakest part of the line, where the railway is 'floated' across the peat bog on layers of turf and brushwood without solid foundations. Here, the train is crossing the short viaduct north of Rannoch station. The bleakness of Rannoch Moor in winter... Corrour... If Rannoch is remote, Corrour station is even more so. Probably Britain's most remote station, it's miles from anywhere accessed by a mere track. The station featured in the 1996 film 'Trainspotting'. Just north of Corrour station is the summit of the line, 1,350 feet above sea level.

Looking back at Corrour, Britain's most remote station... Loch Treig... For several miles the train passes beautiful Loch Treig. The West Highland Line still has jointed rails, not welded rails, and the train's wheels clickety-clack along... Tulloch station... Monessie Gorge... After Tulloch station, look out for the pretty Monessie Gorge on the left, where the railway is built on a ledge along a rocky canyon with the river bubbling along below. Fort William, 123 miles from Glasgow... A modern station built in 1975, the railway originally extended along what is now the ring-road to a station off the high street. Climbing Ben Nevis... Fort William station is only 10 minutes walk from the bottom of the tourist track up Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain, 4,409 feet or 1,344m. It takes 3ï¿½-5ï¿½ hours to climb, 1ï¿½-2ï¿½ to descend. Climbing Ben Nevis by the tourist track . Fort William to Mallaig ...

Fort William is the largest town on the West Highland Line and the sleeper from London terminates there. But the West Highland Line extends further north to the fishing port & ferry terminal of Mallaig, and many people regard this as the nicest section of the route. Mallaig is the ferry terminal for the Isle of Skye and several Scottish islands. Four ScotRail sprinter trains a day link Fort William & Mallaig in each direction (one on Sundays), taking about 90 minutes - most run direct to and from Glasgow. On this section, the left-hand side of the train gets most of the best views going north, right-hand side going south, including views round the curve onto Glenfinnan viaduct - but if travelling to or from Glasgow, remember the train changes direction at Fort William which is a terminus, so you'll have to switch sides there! Departure from Fort William... Settle into your seat on the ScotRail sprinter train for the 1ï¿½ hour, 41-mile journey to the end of the line at Mallaig. Old Inverlochy Castle...

Soon after leaving Ft William, look out for the ruins of Old Inverlochy Castle on the right just before crossing the River Lochy. Neptune's Staircase... At Banavie, the first stop, look to the right to see Neptune's Staircase, the series of locks on the Caledonian Canal across Scotland ... Loch Eil... For some miles the train runs along the banks of saltwater Lock Eil. This is the view looking back from Banavie towards Fort William and Ben Nevis . Glenfinnan Viaduct... Just before Glenfinnan station, the train crosses Glenfinnan viaduct as featured in the Harry Potter films. Built by contractor Robert McAlpine in 1901, it was one of the first rail viaducts to be built of concrete. During construction, the story goes that a horse backed up a wagon to pour rubble into one of the hollow piers. It backed too far, toppled backwards into the pier, and was sealed up.

The story was vindicated a few years ago, but on another viaduct, when maintenance staff using X-ray equipment found the skeleton of a horse in one of the piers of the Loch Nan Uamh viaduct. The best views at Glenfinnan are on the left hand side of the train. Glenfinnan & Loch Shiel... Down at the side of Loch Shiel, a monument commemorates Bonnie Prince Charlie raising his standard here in August 1745. Glenfinnan Station... Check out the station museum ( ). It even has accommodation in converted 1950s railway carriages... Lock Eilt. The train runs along what is perhaps the most picturesque loch on the route, with several tree-strewn islands like this. The best views here are on the right-hand side of the train. Church of Our Lady of the Braes. Just after Lochailort station you might glimpse this church on the left. It featured in the 1983 film 'Local Hero'. Church services ceased in 1964. The train meets the sea at Arisaig then Morar, on the left hand side.

The sandy beaches at Polnish & near Morar were used in the films 'Local Hero' and 'Highlander'. Arisaig, the most westerly railway station in Britain. You didn't think that would be in Cornwall, now, did you? Above right, the train approaches Mallaig. Mallaig is journey's end, 164 miles from Glasgow. For accommodation, try The Moorings B&B or the West Highland Hotel . For food, try the locally-caught haddock & chips at the Fishmarket restaurant on main street, or the wonderful langoustines & Mussels at either The Cabin restaurant or the Steam Inn near the corner of Main Street & Davies Brae. Ferry to Skye & the islands. Mallaig is the ferry terminal for ferries to Skye (Armadale), also the Scottish islands of Muck, Eigg and Rum. For ferry information, see . A brief history of the West Highland Line ... Tiring of the 50-mile trek to the railhead of Kingussie on the Highland Line to Inverness, the citizens of Fort William decided they must have their own railway, and construction started in 1889.

It was not an easy railway to build, across remote and difficult regions of the Scottish highlands. Lack of money meant the line featured many steep gradients and sharp curves as more direct alignments would have meant expensive viaducts & cuttings. The first trains linked Glasgow with Fort William in August 1894. The next step was an extension to the sea, to serve the fishing industry on the west coast. A plan to serve Roshven was blocked by a local landowner, so Mallaig was chosen instead. However, the extension became something of a political football and the Mallaig Extension wasn't opened until 1901. The separate branch line to Oban wasn't originally part of the Glasgow-Fort William-Mallaig line at all, it had its own route from Glasgow via Callander, opened in1880 and operated by the rival Caledonian Railway. This passed under the Glasgow-Fort William line just north of Crianlarich, and you can just make out the old track-bed today from the train to Fort William.

The line from Glasgow via Callander was closed during the Beeching cuts in the 1960s, and trains between Glasgow and Oban diverted to share the line to Crianlarich with the Fort William trains. For more information, buy a copy of the excellent Iron Road to the Isles by Michael Pearson , ï¿½4.99. This has a route map and blow-by-blow account of what you can see from the train along the route, plus information about the history of the line. Highly recommended! Train times, fares & how to buy tickets ... London to Fort William by sleeper: The northbound Caledonian Sleeper leaves London Euston at 21:15 every night except Saturday night, arriving Fort William at 09:55 next morning. Fares from around ï¿½85 each way per person in a 2-berth sleeper. The southbound sleeper leaves Fort William at 19:50 on Mondays-Fridays, 19:00 on Sundays, arriving at London Euston around 07:47 next morning. Friday nights are busiest, mid-week nights quieter so you're more likely to find the cheapest tickets.

See the Caledonian Sleeper page for more information & online booking . From elsewhere in Britain to Fort William & Mallaig: You can travel by daytime trains from almost anywhere in Britain to Fort William & Mallaig via Glasgow, use any train operator website to buy with no added booking fees, for example . The West Highland Line itself, Glasgow-Fort William-Mallaig: Three trains a day (just one on Sundays) link Glasgow's Queen Street station with Fort William & Mallaig over the West Highland Line all year round, with an additional fourth train between Fort William & Mallaig. The whole West Highland Line can be done as a day trip from Glasgow on Mondays-Saturdays, leaving at around 08:21, with 2ï¿½ hours in Mallaig, returning to Glasgow by 21:30. But it's better to spend a couple of days exploring... A period return from Glasgow to Mallaig costs around ï¿½62.60 Anytime or ï¿½58 Off-peak, although advance-purchase fares (no refunds, no changes to travel plans) start at just ï¿½5 each way. To check trains times & fares, see or .

In addition to the regular ScotRail trains, you'll find a Jacobite steam-hauled train from Ft William to Mallaig in the summer, see , and a new weekend Edinburgh-Ft William charter train out on Saturday mornings in July & August, back on Sunday afternoons, see for details. The Jacobite steam train Fort William to Mallaig : During the summer months you can take a daily steam train between Fort William & Mallaig. It runs Monday-Friday from mid May to early October, also on Saturdays & Sundays from late June to late August, leaving Fort William around 10:15, arriving Mallaig at 12:25. It departs again from Mallaig at 14:10, arrives Fort William about 16:00. Special fares apply, around ï¿½30 one-way, ï¿½35 day return (ordinary rail tickets are not valid). You travel in British Railways 1950s Mark 1 carriages, with opening door droplights and window ventilators that make photography easier than through modern trains' sealed windows.

You may be hauled by one of several possible vintage steam locomotives - although on my own trip on the Jacobite the train was pulled by a diesel as both available steam locomotives had broken down! For more information & online booking see . A limited number of tickets may be available for buying on the day of travel at the station, but it's best to pre-book as this train is very popular. Harry Potter fans will find it a real Hogwarts Express experience, too, over the Glenfinnan Viaduct featuring in the Harry Potter films. You can add a one-hour wildlife cruise from Mallaig in summer between the Jacobite arrival and departure times, see . Ferry & bus connections Ferries from Mallaig to Skye (Armadale), Canna, Eigg, Muck & Rum: . The Mallaig-Armadale ferry sails up to 8 times a day, crossing time 30 minutes, fare ï¿½2.80 each way or ï¿½5.60 for a 5-day return. Buses from Armadale to Broadford, Portree & other towns on Skye: . Several buses daily Mondays-Saturdays, but no service on Sundays.

Change at Broadford for another bus over the new(ish) & controversial Skye Bridge to Kyle of Lochalsh. You can then take another great Scottish scenic train ride, the Kyle of Lochalsh to Inverness line, then take mainline trains from Inverness back south. This makes a great circuit of the Highlands, if you can work out the buses. Local ferry from Mallaig to Inverie, on the Knoydart peninsula: . A local ferry sails from Mallaig along the coast to Inverie, a remote settlement unreachable by road, see website for sailing times. This makes a great day trip, visiting Britain's most remote pub, The Old Forge, . Wildlife cruises from Mallaig, see for days, times & prices. Local area, food, hotels & accommodation ... is one of the best resources for information about the towns & villages on the Fort William-Mallaig-Skye 'Road to the Isles', for finding accommodation, local attractions & things to do. In Fort William, there are many B&Bs and hotels.

If you feel like pushing the boat out, there's the famous & luxurious Inverlochy Castle Hotel , originally the family home of the Baron Abingers from its construction in 1863 until 1969. It won 'Scottish Hotel of the Year' 2008, double rooms from ï¿½380 a night. It's 4 miles from Fort William town centre, but they'll send a courtesy car to pick you up from the station. For something less expensive but still comfortable, the venerable Alexandra Hotel is just across the ring road from the railway station. In Glenfinnan, there's the Glenfinnan Seeping-car right next to the station, 1950s carriages turning into unique accommodation. Or the Glenfinnan House Hotel, . In Mallaig, there are a number of B&Bs (try The Moorings , highly recommended) or there's the West Highland Hotel (closed November-March). The Marine Hotel is right next to the station in the middle of Mallaig. Great location, and (unintentionally, no doubt!) something of a 1970s theme experience.

For food, The Fish Market ( ) is well known for its excellent fish & chips, or try the equally excellent Steam Inn for fresh mussels & langoustines as well as good beer. Mallaig Mallaig Mallaig and Morar Community Centre, West BayMallaigPH41 4PXScotland, UK Tel: Reviews Mallaig is a port in Lochaber, on the west coast of the Highlands of Scotland. The local railway station, Mallaig, is the terminus of the West Highland railway line (Fort William & Mallaig branch), completed in 1901, and the town is linked to Fort William by the A830 road – the "Road to the Isles". The village of Mallaig was founded in the 1840s, when Lord Lovat, owner of North Morar Estate, divided up the farm of Mallaigvaig into seventeen parcels of land and encouraged his tenants to move to the western part of the peninsula and turn to fishing as a way of life. The population and local econonmy expanded rapidly in the 20th century with the arrival of the railway.

Ferries operated by Caledonian MacBrayne and Bruce Watt Sea Cruises sail from the port to Armadale on the Isle of Skye, Inverie in Knoydart, and to the isles of Rùm, Eigg, Muck, and Canna. Mallaig is the main commercial fishing port on the West Coast of Scotland, and during the 1960s was the busiest herring port in Europe. Mallaig prided itself at that time on its famous traditionally smoked kippers but today only one traditional smokehouse remains, Jaffy's and Sons. Description above from the Wikipedia article Mallaig, The West Highland Line The West Highland Line The West Highland Line The West Highland Line The West Highland Line features journeys from Glasgow to Fort William, known as the outdoor capital of the UK, and Glasgow to Mallaig where the train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous for being featured in the Harry Potter movies. In addition you can travel to Oban, via Crianlarich. The West Highland Line provides impressive views including the Erskine Bridge, Dumbarton Castle, glimpses of the Arrochar Alps and more.

Train Frequency: - 6 trains each day from Glasgow to Oban. 3 trains each day from Glasgow to Mallaig via Fort William. Reach Glasgow from London by overnight sleeper. One departure per day (except Saturday nights) between London Euston and Glasgow Central, calling at most stations. Western Highlands & Hebrides Tour | Great Rail Journeys Joining the tour in Edinburgh Meet the rest of the group at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Edinburgh. Includes: Days 2-3 West Highland Line to Ballachulish We journey along the incredible West Highland Line. At Fort William, we transfer by coach to the nearby village of Ballachulish, situated at the head of Loch Leven. On Day 3 we join the Jacobite Steam Train* for an unforgettable journey to Mallaig on the final leg of the iconic West Highland Line, perhaps the most scenic stretch of track in the UK, en route to Mallaig. *Please note - on departures 18 April and 2 May the Jacobite does not operate and we make this journey using Scotrail's scheduled service.

Please call for details Includes: Day 4 The Isle of Mull and Duart Castle This morning we travel by coach to Oban and onwards to Isle of Mull. Later, we visit Duart Castle. After time to explore the castle's stately rooms and dungeons, we check in to Isle of Mull Hotel for 2 nights. Includes: Day 5 Wildlife spotting cruise to Staffa and Iona Today we enjoy a spectacular cruising tour around some of the tiny islands west of Mull. Here minke whales and dolphins can be seen. Later we cruise to Iona. Includes: Day 6 Whisky Tasting and onwards to Pitlochry Leaving Mull, today we return to the mainland by ferry to Oban. Here we visit the Oban Distillery for a "Sensory & Flavours" tour including whisky tasting. After lunch in Oban we continue by coach to Pitlochry, an attractive town in the heart of the Highlands, at the foot of Ben Vrackie, and spend three nights here at Atholl Palace Hotel. Includes: Day 7 At Leisure Enjoy a free day to relax in Pitlochry with its pretty Victorian centre, or perhaps take advantage of the local railway station to explore a little further afield.

If you fancy a serene stroll then Pitlochry has excellent woodland nearby. Faskally Wood is set within Tay Forest Park on the banks of Loch Dunmore. and is only one mile north of Pitlochry. The wood is home to a wide array of tree species, some more than 200 years old. The wood has many well signposted paths which make it an easy area to explore amidst the fantastic views of the area. Loch Dunmore is wonderfully picturesque, it has a boat house and a timber footbridge. The manmade wood was originally used to train new foresters, made in the 19th century in the grounds of Faskally House the wood was home to the Forestry Commission School.

Includes: Book with the UK's leading rail holiday operator with over 40 years' travel experience Our Tour Managers and experienced local guides share their in-depth knowledge of each destination Choose a fully escorted tour or speak to our experienced Travel Consultants about an independent holiday Value Our tours include rail travel, transfers, a Tour Manager, quality hotels and many meals Enjoy a full programme of exciting excursions, guided tours and sightseeing Every holiday is covered by the exclusive Great Rail Journeys Price Promise Service Speak to a dedicated team of Tour Advisors based in our York offices Flexibility to add UK rail, domestic flights, overnight hotels, upgrades and tour extensions Our service has been recognised in the Telegraph Travel Awards and British Travel Awards Fully Protected The West Highland Railway Line :: Geograph Britain and Ireland The West Highland Railway Line Images also under a similar Creative Commons Licence . Contents Roy Bridge station Short History Of The Line The West Highland Line was opened by The West Highland Railway Company in 1894. It was taken over by the North British Railway in 1908. The NB was later taken over by the London and North Eastern Railway (LNER) as a result of the national grouping of railway companies in 1923.

Most of the stations were of a similar single island design, with a chalet style building, many of which survive today. If you have a few hours to kill, you might find this youtube video of the journey from Queen Street to Mallaig, taken from a cab, of interest Link . The Route The line runs from Craigendoran, near Helensburgh on the north bank of the Firth of Clyde in Central Scotland to Oban and Mallaig in the West Highlands. The other major town on the route is Fort William which was the northern terminus until the Mallaig Extension opened in 1901. The line splits into separate branches for Oban and Fort William at Crianlarich. Both lines from Crianlarich run through separate stations in neighbouring Tyndrum (Upper and Lower) which make Tyndrum the smallest village in the world to have two main line stations. Crianlarich also had a junction with the Callendar & Oban Railway which closed in 1966. The section of line over Rannoch Moor was a challenge to the builders who decided to "float" the line over the moor on a bed of timber and earth.

The major engineering work on the line is the Glenfinnan Viaduct. The Line Today The line is single track for most if its length, with passing places at some stations. It is maintained by Network rail Link and the services are run by First Scotrail Link . There are three services in each direction each day, with trains splitting at Crianlarich to go to Oban in the west or Fort William & Mallaig in the north. The trains are joined together at Crianlarich for the south-bound journey. Scotrail also runs the Caledonian Sleeper Link from various points in Scotland, including Fort William and the stations to the south. The stations are small, but well maintained, kept in picture postcard condition which befits a line which was voted the most scenic in the world in 2009 and 2010 by readers of the independent travel magazine Wanderlust Link . The Stations Officially, the route begins at Craigendoran, but the services run from Glasgow Queen Street or London Euston (sleeper only). For the purposes of this journey, we catch the train at Category A Listed Link Dumbarton Central station which opened in 1854.

Dumbarton Central Station Our train approaches from Glasgow Queen Street. Some general views of the station and trains. Former Craigendoran station Craigendoran station and pier were opened in 1882 by the Glasgow, Dumbarton and Helensburgh Railway company. There were two platforms, including one on the pier itself. When the West Highland line opened in 1894, two additional platforms were added to serve this line. These platforms became known as Craigendoran Upper station. The upper station closed in 1964, along with several other stations which were served by local trains which ran from here to Arrochar and Tarbet. The station was a few hundred yards west of the junction with the Helensburgh line which marks the beginning of the West Highland Line proper. The pier closed to commercial traffic in 1972 and has since been removed (there were actually two parallel piers). The photo below shows the West Highland Line in the foreground, with the Helensburgh line beyond. Some more photos of Craigendoran station and peir. Helensburgh Upper Station Opened in 1894, this is the first station on the line.

It is one mile up the hill from Helensburgh Central which is on a different line. The difference in character between the two stations is quite striking; busy Helensburgh Central is a terminal station in the middle of town, with fairly extensive buildings and platforms, whereas Helensburgh Upper is akin to a country station high on the hill in the affluent suburbs. The station is convenient for the nearby Hill House which was designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh and is open to the public Link . The span of the road bridge in the second photo below shows that the line was once double track here. The line to Rhu Former Rhu and Shandon stations There were originally stations at Rhu (opened in 1894 as Row, closed 1956, reopened 1960, closed again 1964) and Shandon (closed 1964) between Helensburgh Upper and Garelochhead. From this section of the line, we get the first glimpse of the West Highland scenery for which the line is famed.

Garelochhead Station As the name suggests, Garelochhead is at the head of the Gareloch, which is a sea loch and is home to the UK submarine fleet at Faslane where there was a short branch to the base. There was originally a station at Faslane, but it is now closed. The station opened in 1894. Former Glen Douglas and Whistlefield stations The line passes through closed stations at Whistlefield (opened 1896, closed 1964) and Glen Douglas on the way to Arrochar and Tarbet. There is little if any evidence of those stations remaining today. This photo shows the line at Whistlefield in 2009. Here is a Link to a local website which has photos of the station when it was in active use. The West Highland Line heading towards Garelochhead station. Trees have been felled on either side of the railway recently. by Mark Nightingale A push-pull local train at Glen Douglas in 1958. Glen Douglas station closed in 1964.

Here is a Link to the RailScot web site which has photos of the site of the station in more recent times. Some more recent photos of the station. Fatalities around Arrochar during construction There were many deaths amongst the teams of navvies who built the line an this area. This local website Link provides great detail about the causalties and the successful efforts of the local community to erect a memorial to mark the centenary of the tragic events. Between Arrochar & Tarbet and Ardlui, the line passes through mature oak woods and crosses Inveruglas Water at Inveruglas. There was a temporary station at Inveruglas (opened 1945) to serve construction of the nearby hydro-electric power scheme. The line crosses the hydro-electric pipelines at Inveruglas power station to the north of the site of the old station. There is also a sizeable stone-built viaduct just north of Inveruglas, by the A82.

The Jacobite – Steam Train – Official Site "The greatest railway journey in the world." Jacobite Season Dates for 2017: Easter Special: Friday 14th April to Friday 21st April 2017. Morning Service: Mon to Fri 24th April to 27th Oct and weekends from 17th June to 1st October 2017. Afternoon Service: Mon to Fri 15th May to 15th Sept and weekends from 1st July to 3rd Sept 2017. Festive Special: Mon to Fri 4th Dec to 22nd Dec and Wed 27th Dec to Fri 29th Dec 2017 Described as the greatest railway journey in the world, this 84 mile round trip takes you past a list of impressive extremes.

Starting near the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis, it visits Britain’s most westerly mainland railway station, Arisaig; passes close by the deepest freshwater loch in Britain, Loch Morar and the shortest river in Britain, River Morar, finally arriving next to the deepest seawater loch in Europe, Loch Nevis! The train stops en route to Mallaig at the village of Glenfinnan (see below). Beyond Glenfinnan are the beautiful villages of Lochailort, Arisaig, Morar and Mallaig. You may alight at Arisaig by request to the guard. From here, on a clear summer’s day, you can see the “Small Isles” of Rum, Eigg, Muck, Canna and the southern tip of Skye. The train continues on from here passing Morar and the silvery beaches used in the films “Highlander” and “Local Hero”. Mallaig is our destination But as the travelling is as much a part of the experience as the arrival we hope you enjoy this spectacular railway journey, regarded as one of the greatest in the world.

Fort William Fort William, the largest town in the Highlands and situated at the southern end of the Great Glen, lies in the shadow of Ben Nevis, Britains highest mountain. This area is a fine location to use as a base to discover the West Highlands. Glenfinnan We cross the 21-arched Glenfinnan viaduct (a location made famous in the Harry Potter films) which overlooks Loch Shiel and the Jacobite monument. The train may pause on the viaduct, time permitting, to allow you to take in the magnificent view. Once stopped in Glenfinnan station there will be time to stretch your legs and, if you wish, visit the West Highland Railway Museum located in the restored station building. The Jacobite may also stop at Arisaig by request to the guard. Arisaig The village of Arisaig (the Safe Place) is centred on the sheltered shore of Loch nan Ceall (Loch of the Cells). From this very tranquil village it is possible to take the boat, The Sheerwater to the Small Isles (until mid September). The local Highland Games takes place here annually on the last Wednesday in July at Traigh Farm.

Mallaig The end of the line, Mallaig was founded during the 1840s when the owner of the North Morar Estate, Lord Lovat, divided up the farm on the coast here into a series of parcels of land and encouraged his tenants living around Loch Morar and Loch Nevis to resettle in what became Mallaig and establish a fishing village. Today Mallaig is a busy fishing port and ferry terminal with services to Skye and the Small Isles. Arriving in Mallaig we have over an hour and a half to enjoy a walk round and take in the atmosphere: there are shops, bars, restaurants and plenty of fish and chips to be enjoyed during the lunchtime stopover.

Mallaig Bay West Highland Railway Line | Oban | Fort William | Mallaig | ScotRail Glasgow to Mallaig - approx 5 hours 30 minutes Highlights: true cinematic landscapes The Glenfinnan Viaduct on the Mallaig line, curving high over the waters of Loch Shiel Views of the Cobbler as you approach Arrochar, with its unmistakable rocky pinnacle The mighty Ben Lui, halfway between Crianlarich and Loch Awe on the Oban line The steep-sided Monessie Gorge, taking you close to the River Spean on the Mallaig line Consider stopping at Ardlui at the tip of Loch Lomond – for challenging hillwalks and unbeatable scenery Arrochar & Tarbert – for Loch Lomond cruises Crianlarich, Tyndrum or Bridge of Orchy – to join the West Highland Way Falls of Cruachan on the Oban line – for a free tour of the hydro-electric power station inside Ben Cruachan, the ‘Hollow Mountain’ Arisaig for views of Rum and Eigg – a beautiful peninsula, perfect for walks along the shore of Loch Nan Ceall The route It doesn’t take long to leave Glasgow behind,

 heading west along the Clyde to Helensburgh, and then north via Garelochead and Loch Long.

And from there, you enter a world of deep forests, towering mountains and mirrored lochs. The line divides at Crianlarich, taking you to Oban, or Fort William and Mallaig. Westward to Oban... The train sweeps along the north edge of Loch Awe, in the shadow of Ben Cruachan. Look out for Kilchurn Castle, a 15th century ruin at the head of Loch Awe. The train leaves the loch and pushes on along the River Awe towards Loch Etive. Look out for the frothing rapids at the Falls of Lora near Connell, before the train makes its way into Oban. From there, the ferries take you on to Mull, Iona and the Outer Hebrides. Tickets to Oban ...or North to Mallaig Heading north from Crianlarich is a real spectacle, beginning with the remarkable Horseshoe Curve that enters, circles and leaves the glen beneath Ben Dorain. Then the landscape empties into the broad wilds of Rannoch Moor – where the line floats over the peat bog that stretches to the mountains far in the distance on all sides.

If you like to tick these things off, you’ll pass the UK’s highest altitude train station in Corrour. You may also recognise it from scenes in Trainspotting. As the train pushes on to Fort William, keep an eye out for Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak. Beyond Fort William, you’ll trace the iconic curve of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, probably the most famous piece of rail track in the world after being used by the Harry Potter films as part of the route to Hogwarts. The route to Mallaig takes you past Lochs Eilt, Ailort and Nan Uamh – all starkly beautiful – before arriving at Morar’s sandy shores, yet another cinematic location, this time Local Hero. The final stretch into Mallaig brings glimpses of Skye, which is just a short ferry trip from the port. West Highland Line - Rail Tours | Great Rail Journeys West Highland Line West Highland Line Also known as 'the Iron Road to the Isles', a journey on the West Highland Line is an epic rail adventure that takes passengers through some of the world's most beautiful and dramatic landscapes. In fact the line has twice been voted the world's best rail journey by readers of Wanderlust magazine.

Running from Glasgow's Queen Street station, the train runs through the city's outskirts and on to Helensburgh. From here the train begins its ascent into the famous Highlands. Soon the train skirts the beautiful Loch Long, followed by the immense Loch Lomond, as it makes its way up the ever-increasing gradients. The journey continues alongside the Loch - Britain's largest body of inland water - whilst winding through pretty wooden slopes. Continuing northward through charming isolated villages, the train then climbs more than 500 feet (150 m) in just five miles, before arriving at the tiny hamlet Crianlarich. Here the West Highland Line splits into two branches. One continues to Fort William and Mallaig, the other heads west to Oban. Refine your search Refine your search Departure Date There are 10 holidays in this category Showing 1 to 10 of 10 holidays A Castle On The Shores Of Loch Fyne Set in idyllic, undiscovered surroundings overlooking picturesque Loch Fyne, a 19th century Baronial Castle awaits you on this magnificent tour.

Cruise the open waters to the southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides, explore nearby Oban and Inveraray, and sample the renowned locally-sourced produce. Departs from April 2017 to October 2017. SPECIAL OFFERView Details Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands Majestic lochs and glens lie in wait as we cross Edinburgh and the Highlands and visit historic castles and the Isle of Mull. We travel through the West Highlands and Cairngorms on this fabulous round trip climaxing with a 'Scottish Evening' on Edinburgh's stately Royal Mile. Departs from April 2017 to October 2017. SPECIAL OFFERView Details Grand Tour of the UK Imbued with centuries of history and culture, the UK is one of the most rewarding nations to travel around. Explore the length and breadth of Britain on this outstanding tour of the island. Discover ancient attractions, modern cities and wild landscapes from the rugged Rannoch Moor to the inspiring Stonehenge. Departs from May 2017 to September 2017.

SPECIAL OFFERView Details The Outer Hebrides Enjoy an adventure to Scotland's idyllic Outer Hebrides and The Highlands on a tour that takes in two of the UK's most famous train lines, the West Highland and the Jacobite, as well as time in Stornoway and Isle of Barra. Departs from April 2017 to September 2017. SPECIAL OFFERView Details Western Highlands & Hebrides Discover the incredibly picturesque Western Highlands and the rugged, breathtaking coastal islands which lie off Scotland's western coast. This tour takes us on some of the world's most scenic railway journeys as part of a truly memorable exploration of the Highlands. Departs from May 2017 to September 2017. SPECIAL OFFERView Details Experience the spectacle of marching bands when you visit the Edinburgh Tattoo by train, with pipes and drums resonating from the castle's elevated setting. Complimenting the trip, witness incredible lochs, glens and mountains as we explore the West Highlands. Departs in August 2017. Grand Tour of Scotland Immerse yourself in the culture and majesty of the Scottish Highlands.

You take in the rugged landscapes on two of the UK's most famous train lines; the West Highland Line and the Jacobite. You also visit Loch Ness and castles that transport you through the history of this region. Our hotels are a highlight too, especially the 5-Star Fairmont St Andrews. Departs from June 2017 to September 2017. SPECIAL OFFERView Details Scottish Islands & Lochs Cruise This fantastic five-night cruise through the heart of the Highlands begins and ends with a night in Edinburgh before we board our ship for a journey through the rugged coastline of Scotland's west coast to the unspoilt beauty of the Isle of Mull, up Neptune's Staircase, along the Caledonian Canal and across Loch Ness. Departs from April 2017 to October 2017. SPECIAL OFFERView Details The Highlands & Inner Hebrides Cruise After travelling on the incredibly scenic Kyle Line Railway, we explore the rugged Scottish Highlands from the comfort of our luxury ship. This fantastic voyage takes us up to Neptune's Staircase, through picturesque lochs, along the Caledonian Canal and passes the glorious islands and idyllic scenery of the Inner Hebrides.

Departs from May 2017 to September 2017. SPECIAL OFFERView Details Enjoy a winter break at majestic Stonefield Castle in Scotland - on a tour that takes you from tranquil locations to the remarkable Cruachan Power Station, and on the world-famous West Highland Line. 7 days from Please call for details View tour details More about the West Highland Line To Fort William and Mallaig: Shortly after leaving Crianlarich, trains reach one of the line's most dramatic points; the spectacular horseshoe curve viaduct, a glorious sweeping structure crossing the valley between the mountains. The route continues over the lofty, lonely Rannoch Moor, a magnificent expanse of land inhabited only by deer. Shortly afterwards the line reaches its peak at Corrour summit, 1,350 ft above sea level. The train then continues to Fort William. Set under the looming bulk of Ben Nevis, Fort William was the original terminus of the line, opening in 1894. Trains then commence over the Mallaig Extension, which was completed in 1901. Covering the demanding terrain of this 39-mile stretch was a major feat of railway engineering.

The journey continues over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct - known for its appearance in the Harry Potter films - as the line approaches the west coast, offering tantalising glimpses of the Small Isles in the distance. The journey's end is at Mallaig, a fishing town with a busy port and salty sea air, 164 miles from Glasgow. To Oban: After leaving Crianlarich, the Oban line passes through the beautiful Glen Lochy and passes the brooding ruins of Kilchurn Castle, which was historically a stronghold of the Glen Campbell. The train then continues through the rugged scenery, and passes through Taynuilt, an idyllic village on the shores of Loch Etive. After reaching the Falls of Laura and Glen Cruitten, the line descends towards the coast, terminating in Oban, a pretty town - and the gateway to the islands of Mull and Islay.

Sign up for our free newsletter Sign Up Now West Highland Line | UK Transport Wiki | Fandom powered by Wikia Template:West Highland Line The West Highland Line ( Template:Lang-gd - "Railway to the Isles") is considered the most scenic railway line in Britain, linking the ports of Mallaig and Oban on the west coast of Scotland to Glasgow . The line was voted the top rail journey in the world by readers of independent travel magazine Wanderlust in 2009, ahead of the iconic Trans-Siberian and the Cuzco to Machu Picchu line in Peru. [2] [3] [4] The ScotRail website has since reported that the line has been voted the most scenic railway line in the world for the second year running. Passenger services on the line are operated by First ScotRail : three daily return services between Glasgow Queen Street and Mallaig/Oban, and one nightly (except Saturdays) Caledonian Sleeper service between London Euston and Fort William . During the summer season a steam locomotive -hauled daily return service between Fort William and Mallaig known as "The Jacobite" is operated by West Coast Railways .

Onward ferry connections operated by Caledonian MacBrayne are available from Mallaig to the Isle of Skye , to the small isles of Rùm , Eigg , Muck , and Canna , and to Inverie on the Knoydart peninsula . From Oban ferries sail to the islands of Lismore , Colonsay , Coll , Tiree , Mull , Barra and South Uist . The West Highland Line is one of two railway lines which access the remote and mountainous west coast of Scotland, the other being the Kyle of Lochalsh Line which connects Inverness with Kyle of Lochalsh . The line is the westernmost railway line in Great Britain. Contents Crianlarich to Oban - Callander and Oban Railway , operated by the Caledonian Railway . Route description Edit Since the great improvements to Scottish trunk roads in the 1980s, the train journey can take significantly longer than the equivalent road journey. This is because of the tremendous amount of make up time in the schedule along with the poor scheduling of stopping trains in front of this express train on the North Clyde line, while 15 minutes are given to divide the train in Crianlarich.

The line takes a circuitous route that brings it into Fort William from the north-east. The line is single track throughout and trains must wait at stations with crossing loops for opposite direction trains to pass. Over much of the Rannoch Moor section the speed limit is 60 mph for the Sprinter and 70 mph on the approach to Rannoch station. The Caledonian Sleeper on the other hand only does 40 mph maximum, slowing down for a number of bridges on the route due to the heavy weight of the Class 67 locomotive which hauls the train. File:Oban Railway Station.jpg Shortly after leaving Queen Street station in Glasgow, and beyond Queen Street Tunnel, the line follows a northwesterly course through the suburbs of Maryhill and Kelvindale . Between Westerton and Dumbarton , the route is shared with the North Clyde Line before branching northward at Craigendoran Junction towards Garelochhead , the section where the West Highland Line is generally accepted to "begin proper". It gives high-level views of the Gareloch and Loch Long before emerging alongside the northwesterly shores of Loch Lomond , then climbs Glen Falloch .

Significant points on the journey include Crianlarich , an important Highland junction of both road and rail, and Tyndrum , the smallest place in Scotland to boast two railway stations. File:Bridge of Orchy Station 1899197 506f4624.jpg After Bridge of Orchy, the line climbs onto Rannoch Moor , past the former crossing point at Gorton Crossing to Rannoch station. In winter, the moor is often covered with snow, and the deer may be seen running from the approaching train. The station at Corrour on the moor is one of the most remote stations in Britain and is not accessible by any public roads. This is the summit of the line at 410 m (1347 ft) above sea level. Carrying on northwards, the line descends above the shores of Loch Treig and through the narrow Monessie Gorge. The final stop before Fort William is Spean Bridge .

The section between Fort William and Mallaig passes over the Glenfinnan Viaduct , through Arisaig with its views of the Small Isles of Rùm , Eigg , Muck and Canna , and the white sands of Morar before coming to Mallaig itself. The diverging route at Crianlarich runs through Glen Lochy to Dalmally and through the Pass of Brander to reach salt water at Taynuilt and Connel Ferry before a final climb over a hill to Oban . With the exception of the route between Glasgow Queen Street and Helensburgh Upper, and the short section between Fort William Junction and Fort William station, the railway is signalled using the Radio Electronic Token Block , controlled from the signal box at Banavie station . Some notable railway-related features

Question: What is the western terminus of the West Highland Railway line in Scotland?
Answer: Mallaig